Deutsche Bank Denies Talk of Capital Increase by Management Board

The transcript discusses Deutsche Bank's potential need for a capital raise to facilitate a merger. Despite no official management discussion, investor concerns about past capital raises and the merger's strategic rationale are highlighted. Challenges in attracting new investors due to unclear benefits and weak equity stories are noted. The timeline for a decision is expected before the first quarter earnings, with a focus on the merger's structure and funding sources.

How long have discussions about the merger been ongoing, according to the text?

What is the significance of the decision that Deutsche Bank is expected to make before the first quarter earnings?